Swallowing difficulty

Definition

Difficulty with swallowing is the feeling that food or liquid is stuck in the throat or at any point before the food enters the stomach. This problem is also called dysphagia.

Alternative Names

Dysphagia; Impaired swallowing; Choking - food; Globus sensation

Causes

The process of swallowing involves several steps. These include

Chewing food

Moving it into the back of the mouth

Moving it down the esophagus (the tube that moves food to the stomach)

There are many nerves that help the muscles of the mouth, throat, and esophagus work together. Much of swallowing occurs without you being aware of what you are doing.

A brain or nerve disorder can alter the workings of the muscles of the mouth and throat.

Swallowing is a complex act. Many nerves work in a fine balance to control how the muscles of the mouth, throat, and esophagus work together. Much of swallowing occurs without you being aware of what you are doing.

A brain or nerve disorder can alter this fine balance in the muscles of the mouth and throat.

Failure of the muscle ring at the bottom of the esophagus to relax (Achalasia)

Scarring that narrows the esophagus. This may be due to radiation, chemicals, medicines, chronic swelling, ulcers, or infection.

Something stuck in the esophagus, such as a piece of food.

Scleroderma, a disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the esophagus

Tumors in the chest that press on the esophagus

Symptoms

Chest pain, the feeling of food stuck in the throat, or heaviness or pressure in the neck or upper or lower chest may be present.

Other symptoms may include:

Cough or wheezing that becomes worse

Coughing up food that has not been digested

Heartburn

Nausea

Sour taste in the mouth

You may have problems swallowing with any eating or drinking, or only with certain types of foods or liquids. Difficulty eating very hot or cold foods, dry crackers or bread, meat, or chicken may be an early sign of swallowing problems.